Surf dogs, north Devon
Explore the perfect beach for dogs, Woolacombe Beach in north Devon. With its soft sand and wild Atlantic waves, it’s ideal for our four-legged friends. Stretching three miles from Barricane Beach to Baggy Point, there are certain areas where dogs are restricted. Some parts are even designated surfing areas, and you can even find kiosks offering boards and lessons for dogs. However, I didn’t want to embarrass Bob and Bertrand, our lovely Beagles, by insisting they try. But other pet owners were more adventurous. You’ll find plenty of dog bins and cafes with water bowls for dogs. The Barricane Beach cafe, run by animal lovers, serves great coffee and offers great-value curry nights.
Break for the border (collie), Highlands
If you’re a border collie owner, the Highlands is the place to be. Oban is a true doggie delight. During our stay there with our border collie named Evie, we discovered that dogs are not only welcome at the Lorne Bar, but they even have their own menu! After taking Evie on local walks and a stroll through the harbor filled with interesting smells, we stopped at the bar for a drink and a bite. The dog options include sausages and butchers’ dry food, and you can even accompany their meal with Belgium doggy beer or “paw” secco (0% alcohol). Evie happily chose the sausages and found that there was much more to enjoy in the town than her morning harbor walk had suggested.
Walkies on the beach, Ceredigion
Experience the breathtaking coastal walk between Aberporth and Tresaith in west Wales. Both beaches welcome dogs without restrictions between September and May. However, in the summer there are some areas where they are not allowed. These soft, golden sandy beaches offer beautiful views and are often visited by dolphins, boasting the largest population in Europe. Tresaith is also home to a waterfall where the River Saith flows over the cliff top. Many pubs and restaurants in Ceredigion are dog-friendly, such as The Ship Inn in Tresaith with its panoramic terrace, and the Driftwood Cafe in Aberporth, which offers treats for furry companions.
Panting on the peninsula, Argyll and Bute
Located near Tarbert on the shore of Loch Fyne, Stonefield Castle Hotel is a dog-friendly gem. With its 60 acres of woodland gardens to explore, it was the perfect destination for us and our furry companion. Our room provided a stunning view of the loch, and the full Scottish breakfast prepared us for a day of exploring the Kintyre peninsula. In the evenings, we relaxed in the bar where dogs are welcome to join and even dine alongside their owners. The food was delicious, and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
Beach walking in Cornwall
One of the best dog-friendly beaches we’ve discovered is Porthcurno in Cornwall. This fantastic beach is located in a bay and requires a clamber down to reach it, but it’s well worth it. Not only can you enjoy the soft sand and spectacular cliff walks, but you can also visit the Museum of Global Communications, which allows dogs, and even the Minack Theatre, where dogs are welcome on a lead when there’s no show. Our dog Tito had a great time exploring and enjoying his seaside break.
Canines at Camber, East Sussex
Discover the charming Jeakes’ House in Rye, East Sussex. This beautiful 17th-century house is situated in the center of town, just a short walk from Lamb House, formerly home to novelist Henry James. Jeakes’ House welcomes dogs, and Camber Sands is located nearby, where your furry friend can enjoy romping around the sandy dunes. The layout of the house is charming, the food is wonderful, and the well-stocked honesty bar is an unexpected delight.
Bay of dogs, Gower, near Swansea
The Gower Peninsula is a paradise for dogs and dog owners. The coastal path from the Mumbles, near Swansea, offers wide open trails with green grass and fresh air where dogs can run freely. You can then head down to vast beaches like Three Cliffs Bay for a final bit of exercise or just some chill-out time, both for you and your furry companion. In Tenby, a pretty dog-friendly town further west in Pembrokeshire, you can enjoy leisurely strolls with your dog, sampling ice-cream while exploring the winding streets. You can then unleash your dog on the South Beach for a refreshing swim in the sea.
Winning tip: Muddy mutts, near Glasgow
For a fantastic dog-friendly experience, visit Mugdock Country Park near Glasgow. With its 666 acres of open countryside, crisscrossing paths, and peaceful atmosphere, it’s a treasured destination for both dogs and humans. Dogs can chase smells in the woods, splash around in streams, and make friends at the outdoor cafe area. For everyone else, there are ruined castles, a loch, picnic spots, and abundant nature. Located just 10 miles north of Glasgow, with convenient car parking and a visitor center, it’s a true oasis for everyone. Dog owners are kindly asked to keep their dogs on a lead in certain areas of the park.